Mariam Dawood School of Visual Arts and Design at Beaconhouse National University in Lahore successfully hosted the
third -edition of IEDA NothingFest'23, a two-day event celebrating the power of zero. The event, held on 19th- 20th May, 2023, featured keynote speeches, talkshops, and immersive outdoor activities that captivated participants and sparked thought-provoking discussions.
On the first day, keynote speakers Dr. Arfa Syeda and Dr. Faisal set the tone for the event. Dr. Arfa Syeda emphasized
the significance of zero in the context of nothingness, while Dr. Faisal discussed advancements in synthetic biology and
the transformative potential of engineering living systems.
Talkshops were led by influential personalities such as makeup artist and photographer duo Maram Abroo, Ayesha Inam,
and Mehek Rashad from the Stem Lab, along with Burhan Khan, Bushra Sultan, Zara Gul, Isfandyar Khan, Sarah Khan,
Momal Agha from PM Labs, and Hamza Omar. They shared their personal journeys related to the theme of zero, inspiring
attendees to explore new perspectives.
The second day began with impactful keynote speeches by Alina Khan from Joyland - the movie, a transgender activist,
and Fahad Mirza. Alina shared her experiences and journey as a transgender individual, while Fahad spoke about channeling
the power within zero to connect with the divine.
Talkshops on the second day were conducted by esteemed personalities including Haroon Rashid (CEO of Shell), Awais Khan
(Prominent Pakistani Author), Izza Zainab (Mental Health Specialist), Bushra Mahnoor, Naveed Farooqi (Chemical Engineer
and Mod Monk), and Fatima Nasir, encouraging students to explore the possibilities that arise from zero.
The event concluded with a body and movement led by SVAD alumni and faculty member Faizaan Ahab, and a student-led
music activity led by Rabbia Farooq.The final highlight was a captivating jazz performance by the band White Brick Jazz.
Prof. Rashid Rana, the dean of SVAD (School of Visual Arts and Design), emphasized the significance of a well-rounded
education and the exposure of students to a diverse range of ideas, disciplines, and knowledge. He recognized the IEDA
NothingFest as an event that provided students with a break from their routine and an opportunity for self-discovery. Prof.
Rana's viewpoint aligns with the philosophy of SVAD, which aims to create a transdisciplinary environment conducive to
the vision of IEDA as an initiative.
Associate Professor Rohma Khan, the Director of NothingFest and program head IEDA, considered the event as a
celebration of transdisciplinarity, providing students with an opportunity to forge new relationships with their academic
environs.
IEDA NothingFest'23 showcased the commitment of Mariam Dawood School of Visual Arts and Design to fostering exploration,
creativity, and innovation. The event encouraged students to embrace the potential of zero and find inspiration and purpose
within themselves.
IEDA NothingFest'23 showcased the commitment of Mariam Dawood School of Visual Arts and Design to fostering exploration,
creativity, and innovation. The event encouraged students to embrace the potential of zero and find inspiration and purpose
within themselves.